After a recommendation, I decided to pick this book up. Something I’ve been focused on a lot recently is trying to think above just my day to day tasks and actions and focus more on higher-level thinking and decisions that can have a larger impact outside my immediate sphere of influence. This book offers several case studies for “deep work” as the author defines it, as well as tips and tricks for spending more time in a focused, uninterrupted state.
What is deep work?
Deep work is the ability to focus without distraction on a cognitively demanding task. It’s a skill that allows you to quickly master complicated information and produce better results in less time.
The key here as I see it is finding the best ways to set yourself up for success to have those long, uninterrupted periods of time that you can use to accomplish “deep work.” Sometimes this means saying no to more meetings or demands on your schedule. Other times it means being intentional with the time you do have control over and using it to its fullest extent.
There’s also the constant pull and distraction of technology (social media, email, etc…) that is just an unlock away on our phones. Being intentional about getting time away from those devices during these deep work states is essential.
I highly recommend taking a look at Deep Work, even if you don’t plan on implementing all of the methods mentioned, I imagine there will be at least something useful you can apply to your personal or professional life.